What is Masked Aadhaar Card?

A Masked Aadhaar is a version of your regular Aadhaar card where the first eight digits are hidden and only the last four digits are visible. It was introduced by the Unique Identification Authority of India (UIDAI) to enhance security and privacy when sharing your Aadhaar details.

How to get Masked Aadhaar?

To obtain a masked Aadhaar card, follow these steps,

• Visit the official website of UIDAI.
• Click on “My Aadhaar” and navigate to “Download Aadhaar.”
• Enter your Aadhaar number/Enrollment ID (EID) or Virtual ID (VID).
• Tick the option “I want a masked Aadhaar.”
• Click on “Send OTP” and enter the OTP received on your registered mobile number.

How to Download Masked Aadhaar Using EID?

• Visit the UIDAI official website.
• Click on “Download Aadhaar” and select “Enrollment ID (EID).”
• Enter your 14-digit EID and tick the option “I want a masked Aadhaar.”
• Verify the OTP and download your UIDAI Masked Aadhaar.

How to Download Masked Aadhaar Using VID?

• Open the UIDAI app.
• Under “All Services,” tap on “Download Aadhaar.”
• Select “Masked Aadhaar” as your preference.
• Choose Virtual ID (VID) and enter it.
• Enter the security Captcha and request an OTP.
• Once verified, your Aadhaar card will be downloaded.

Offline Process to get Masked Aadhaar

If you prefer an offline process, visit your Municipal Corporation or Panchayat and submit the necessary documents to get a birth certificate form. Fill out the form within 21 days of the birth. In case of delay, police verification will be conducted.

What is a Masked Aadhaar Password?

The masked Aadhaar password is the same as the regular e-Aadhaar password. It consists of the first four letters of your name in capital letters (as mentioned in your Aadhaar card) followed by your birth year.

Why Should You Use a Masked Aadhaar Card?

1. Privacy Protection

• Masked Aadhaar card ensures your privacy by revealing only the last 4 digits of your Aadhaar number. The first 8 digits are masked with characters like “xxxx-xxxx.”
• When you share your Aadhaar for non-critical purposes (such as SIM card activation, e-KYC, or other verifications), using a masked version helps prevent unnecessary exposure of your full Aadhaar number.

2. Reduced Risk of Misuse

• With a regular Aadhaar card, the complete 12-digit number is visible. Misplacing or sharing it inadvertently can lead to identity theft or unauthorized access.
• A masked Aadhaar card minimizes this risk. Even if someone gains access to the masked version, they won’t have the complete number to misuse.

3. Legal Validity

• A masked Aadhaar card is legally valid for all purposes where Aadhaar verification is required.
• Whether you use the regular or masked version, both serve the same legal purpose.

4. Security in Digital Transactions

• When linking your Aadhaar to various services (bank accounts, mobile numbers, etc.), using a masked version adds an extra layer of security.
• It prevents potential attackers from easily obtaining your full Aadhaar number.

5. Control Over Information Sharing

• Sometimes, you need to share your Aadhaar for minor transactions or verifications. Using a masked version allows you to share only the necessary information.
• You maintain control over how much of your Aadhaar number is visible.

Difference Between Masked Aadhaar Card and Regular Aadhaar Card

Masked Aadhaar Card	Regular Aadhaar Card
It show only the last 4 digits of the Aadhaar number, while the first 8 digits are masked with characters like “xxxx-xxxx.”	It shows 12-digit Aadhaar number noticeable on the card.
Increases privacy by showing only a partial Aadhaar number.	Provides complete information, including the full Aadhaar number.
Ideal for situations where only limited information is required.	Suitable for most purposes, including official verification

Both Regular and Masked Aadhaar Cards are legally valid.